Chaos and mourning engulfed major towns across Kenya on Wednesday morning following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The veteran opposition leader reportedly died in India after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk, sparking an outpouring of grief nationwide.
In Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), confusion and panic ensued as shops were looted and businesses hurriedly closed. Videos circulating online showed groups of mourners carrying twigs and chanting songs in praise of Raila while others looted shops amid the commotion.
At Jeevanjee Gardens, hundreds of Kenyans were captured arriving on boda bodas, waving branches, and breaking into emotional chants and songs in memory of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader. Business owners across the city quickly shut their doors, fearing potential violence and destruction.
Police were yet to respond to the incidents by mid-morning, as residents raised concerns over safety and property losses. Commuters in the CBD reported traffic disruptions and tense scenes as crowds gathered spontaneously to express their grief.
In Raila’s hometown of Bondo, Siaya County, thousands of supporters poured into the streets, waving green leaves and bringing transport and business activities to a standstill. Similar scenes were witnessed in Kisumu, where boda boda riders led processions through the streets as traders voluntarily closed shops in solidarity.
In Nairobi’s Kibera, Raila’s political stronghold, emotional residents gathered in large numbers, singing and wailing in remembrance of a man they described as a national hero.
President William Ruto has declared seven days of national mourning in honour of Raila Odinga, directing that flags fly at half-mast across the country.
